We are a state run museum and we had an admission fee for years. A couple of years ago they did away with the fees thinking that folks would put more in the donation box and that the net would be more. I don't have the numbers but it proved correct. In the past a patron paid $3.29 (that's what the cost was with tax), paid with a $5 bill and put the change in their pocket. When they came out they didn't put anything in the donation box because they had to pay to get in. Now they come out and throw the whole $5 bill in. The result has been more visitors actually seeing the museum AND a net increase in money coming in.
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From: Museum discussion list [[log in to unmask]] on behalf of Stephanie Turnham [[log in to unmask]]
Sent: Wednesday, March 04, 2015 11:11 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: [MUSEUM-L] free admission

Hi, Check with the Dallas Museum of Art. A couple of years ago, they stopped charging admission. Best, Stephanie

From: Museum discussion list [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Mary Helen Dellinger
Sent: Wednesday, March 04, 2015 10:53 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: [MUSEUM-L] free admission

Our small local history museum is considering dropping our admission charge at the start of the new fiscal year.  I am looking for feedback from those of you that have always offered free admission, or any institution that once charged but then switched to free.  How has this helped your admission numbers?  What was the feedback you got from your community?  Do you regret it?  How did you roll out the change?  Thanks in advance for any comments or suggestions you are willing to offer.

Mary Helen Dellinger, Curator
Manassas Museum
9101 Prince William Street
Manassas, VA 20110

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